For He has not given me the Spirit of Fear

12.18.2017

Faith and Fashion 360 18 December type a

Preparation, Perseverance, and God's Plan: When Your Plan Doesn't Cut It

Here's a fun fact about me: I am a Type-A person. Type A and Type B personality theory describes two contrasting personality types. In this theory, personalities that are more competitive, highly organized, ambitious, impatient, highly aware of time management and/or aggressive are labeled Type A, while more relaxed personalities are labeled Type B.

Being so hyper organized and detail oriented has always been a blessing for me. It's just the way my brain operates. I can tell you how long it going to take me to get to the gas station and hit the ATM (barring a line), down to the very minute. Running late gives me anxiety. And being on time for things? If you tell me 4pm, I will religiously be there by 3:40pm, trying to find out what I missed. I can't help it. I've always been this way. And its worked for me.

For the most part.

In the past few years, my life has taken a few turns for the better---a thriving blog, modeling gigs and shows left and right, sponsorships, collaborations, international flights, the list goes on. Saying that I was prepared for this elevation in my life would be a lie. I didn't know that I was going to be here.

We all have plans for ourselves. This could be a plan for the day, week, month, or even the next year. We have plans for our fitness, as well as plans for eating right and drinking more water. We have plans on finding our Boaz and finding family, or even a plan to cut off relationships (romantic or platonic) altogether.

Sometimes these plans are written down.
Sometimes they're just in our head, without any concrete bullet points or planners to accompany them.
We all do it. Whether its the Type-A or Type-B way.

One thing I've learned about "planning" as a child of God is that my planning holds the assumption that I'm in control. It holds the assumption that my successful planning puts me as the front runner of accolades or praise for getting it right. Do you remember that saying from Colonel John "Hannibal" Smith of the A-Team? "I love it when a good plan comes together." We automatically feel these overwhelming sense of pride when we painstakingly plan something and it...works out?!

The adrenaline rush of making it happen.
The relief in it being over.
The determination as we play with the thought of doing it again.

On the flip side of that is the fear, anger, and disappointment we feel when things just don't work out.

THAT is where I learned I am just a passenger in the grand scheme of things. A few of my brothers and sisters in the Bible could definitely empathize with these feelings as well.You guys know I'm into annotated versions of Bible stories, so look for the corresponding Bible books and scriptures to follow.

Joseph-Sold by His Brothers into Slavery (Genesis 37)

God really messed up Joseph’s life plan. His brothers threw him into a dry well, then sold him into slavery. The wife of his Egyptian master tried to seduce him. When he refused her advances, she turned him over to the Egyptian cops, who then tossed him in prison. He spent years in prison, waiting to be released. I don’t imagine that Joseph included prison time in his life plan. Finally, after many years of painful waiting, God exalted him to the second in command in all of Egypt.

Abraham and Sarah

God really messed up Abraham and Sarah’s life plan. He allowed Sarah to be infertile and barren for years. He took them out of their homeland, away from their family and friends. Finally, after the couple waited earnestly for many years, God promised them a son. Then God made them wait some more. Finally, their hopes and dreams were realized when their son Isaac was born. Then God told Abraham to sacrifice Isaac. Talk about a wrench in the life plan.

After God rescued Isaac, and all was said and done, God made the following astonishing declaration to Abraham:

“By myself I have sworn, declares the Lord, because you have done this and have not withheld your son, your only son, I will surely bless you, and I will surely multiply your offspring as the stars of heaven and as the sand that is on the seashore. And your offspring shall possess the gate of his enemies, and in your offspring shall all the nations of the earth be blessed, because you have obeyed my voice.” (Genesis 22:16–18)

The "monkey wrench" list could go on. These were firm believers in the Lord. People who trusted His will and way at every step. So as I increase my prayer life and my reading I just ask God to give me the spirit of trust. To help me to let go of my need to control variables around me. Because...sometimes you can do all you can in the flesh, and He has a better plan for you in the Spirit.

My prayer today:

Father God, I thank you for the blessings you have bestowed on me thus far. I thank you for your never ending love and adoration for me, that you have loved me so deeply to provide me with all of the things my heart never knew I wanted. I beg your forgiveness for all of the times I tried to snatch the driver's wheel out of your hands, as you rode this unsafe vehicle (my plans) into safer terrain (your plans). I ask that you forgive me when I forget what your word states in Ephesians 3:20

"Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly

abundantly above all that we

ask or think,

according to the power that works in us,"

I thank you God for being the first and final say in every step of my life. And I thank you for being a better planner than I could ever be.

Faithfully,

Brieana

12.17.2017

Faith and Fashion 360 17 December trends

Trend Alert: Athleisure

Happy Sunday Divas!

I have a confession; I'm not a big fad of fads and trends. If I like something, I'll grab it. If I don't, I walk past it. Typically I don't get into the latest styles, as they make for loads of unused items in your closet, made for purging. So, I usually find myself turning a blind eye, until I see something I know I can use in a bunch of different ways.

One such trend whose pieces I know can be dressed up or down, is the althleisure trend sweeping the blogger nations.

For anyone sleeping under a rock, Athleisure is a trend in fashion in which clothing designed for workouts and other athletic activities is worn in other settings, such as at the workplace, at school, or at other casual or social occasions. This means that those Adidas sweatpants, or your favorite hoodie can actually be worn as a chic look to the latest holiday party! Fear not on what not to wear, as this trend puts the "purpose" in re-purposing your clothes.

I took a swing at the athleisure trend with this Gucci inspired leggings I scored from TNicole Boutique. Although workout inspired clothing is typically baggy and less form fitting, these leggings had an awesome stretch, perfect for doubling as yoga, or even running pants.

I paired it with this comfy sweater from Burlington Coat Factor and vibrant red heels, for an ensemble made in Chic and comfy heaven.

What's one of your favorite trends sweeping the blogosphere? Leave a comment or picture below! I love hearing from you!

Faithfully,

Brieana

12.04.2017

Faith and Fashion 360 04 December style

OOTD: Meet me in Miami

Happy Monday folks! I hope you all had a blessed and productive weekend, doing all of the things you set your hearts out to do in 2017. Personally,I was continuing to live out my dreams in Miami, as I had the honor or representing all of the fabulous curvy/plus girls of Los Angeles in the Miss Fashion Week Universe competition. All of the beautiful contenders (runway, petite, plus, and international) convened in sunny Miami beach to compete for the reigning title as Queen for the year 2018. It was a whirlwind experience to say the least, and although I didn't win, my Quneedom reigns on for the year of 2018. Catch me in LA soon.

Along with the competition this weekend, were many photo opportunities. My sponsor and mangers had us in all of the right locations to slay!

My favorite photoshoot wardrobe item? These "Prissy Pants" I purchased from TNicoleBoutique. These were an awesome combination of business casual and comfort!

Ruffle Top:Similar

There was plenty to do in Miami. With all of the networking, meetings, and traveling, I needed to be cute, comfy, while meaning business. This red pair allowed for the chic vibe I needed,with an awesome stretch in the waist in addition to the gold buttons. The flared legs allowed for the breezy Miami air to vent through.

Paired with this Off-the-shoulder top from Ashley Stewart(currently sold out), I was ready to hit the streets of Miami, destined to make some connections.

What's your favorite "Girl Boss" look? Comment or post a picture below!

Faithfully,
Brieana

11.18.2017

Faith and Fashion 360 18 November subscriptions

10 Reasons Why I Love Ipsy

Good day divas and fashionistas! I've recently embarked on my newest business/resume endeavor to become a certified make-up artist. This has led me on a never-ending shopping spree for the latest and greatest beauty products. Although the regular browsing through Amazon.com and wish.com have left me pretty satisfied, I'm a HUGE "tester" girl, and there's nothing worse than purchasing a product you won't use.

Enter ipsy, the monthly beauty subscription that sends personalized must haves for your beauty bag--right to your door! ipsy was founded by some awesome curators who want us to all be ourselves in this vast world of fashion, without breaking the bank.

I got my first ipsy bag 2 weeks ago, and I was not disappointed! In fact, I'm so satisfied that I'm about to outline 10 reasons why I adore this little bag with some BIG benefits!

This 2 toned bag

If you're limited on space with no shortage of products, bags and boxes are a must to keep your things together.Each ipsy subscription comes in a unique bag each month. I personally took this one and put my lipstick in it. It was the perfect size!

5 awesome products

Before diving into ipsy's world of beauty, they conduct an assessment on each member to find out what things you'd like to see in your bag. Their products range from glosses and lipsticks, foundations and concealers, and even face masks and cleansers. The high-end diva can also rest assured that her favorite MAC product could be part of her bag one month! There's no skimping on products here. Based on my answers,. here were my picks for the month:

White Lavender Body Lotion

I initially tossed this lotion behind my favorite Victoria's secrets and Bath and Body Works favorites. But once I decided to try it, it easily moved to the front of my dresser, and at the top of my skincare routine. With hints of lemon in addition to the lavender, this smell good lotion also has a light feel, while also maintaining moisture needed for the harsh winds of the fall/winter seasons.

JonteBlu Lip Liner

No dry lip liners here! I've never used creamy lip liners before, but they are easily being added onto my growing MUA list! The creaminess doesn't clump or break (yes, I've had enough uses to test it out. Don't judge me), and it allows you to pack on your gloss, balm, or lipstick, without worrying about coloring outside of the lines.

"It Cosmetics"-Your Skin But Better

I've heard great things about the revolutionary new make-up brand, that basically enhances your natural skin. This full-coverage foundation, covers all of those pesky pores and lines, without getting too caked on. I wasn't lucky enough to get my skin color to test it out, but I'm sure this color can be used to a contour.

Tarte Deluxe Amazonian Clay 12-Hour Blush

Blush, an often forgotten staple in my make-up application, was instantly revived after receiving this product. The dusty rose color (affectionately named Feisty), provided just enough rosiness I needed without the clown effect I normally achieve when applying blush. And it literally lasts ALL day! Score!

Trestique' Mini Brow Pencil

I don't know about anyone else, but brows are tough for me. I mean sure, we've all heard the "sisters not twins" mantra, but some days I can't seem to get it right. This brow pencil really helped me get the shaping together! The angled tip was just what I needed as a novice brow drawer. Thank you Trestique Gods!

1 Awesome Community

Ipsy doesn't just stop after sending you some awesome items! Their site comes armed with tutorials on how to apply products, fin videos, and a platform dedicated to eradicating prejudice and labels. Click here to find out about Ipsy's collaboration with Ditch The Label.

1 Every Month

The fun doesn't end until you want it to! Each month., the ipster community is working behind the scenes to make sure you're living your best life with the best items. Each month, you get a new bag with new swag.

1 Low Price

Now after all that goodness, I know some of you are waiting with bated breath on the sky high price of beauty. Well I am happy to report that ipsy's price is an affordable $10/month! YES, that's right! $10 for 5 beauty products and an awesome bag! I spend 10 bucks a week on coffee (and that's being generous).

If I've piqued you interest at all, head over to ipsy.com to take FREE assessment and get started on your bag today. I pray you love it as much as I did.

Faithfully,

Brieana

9.18.2017

Faith and Fashion 360 18 September tshirt dress

A New Day: Fab Under $50

Target: A place to excessively indulge in all of your wants and needs. They never disappoint, and the airborne "shopping trance" we all enter on arrival to the blessed store is not foreign to anyone looking for a sale on the largest kitchen appliance, baby registry gift, or timeless wardrobe piece. It's the place we try to drive past, but never quite hit the mark.

Clothing is the first line of attack when entering into Target. When balling on a budget, Target (or "Tar-Zayy as us fake bougie like to call it) is the premiere place for awesome accent pieces and trends that live on through the decades. Their new line "A New Day", does just that, with pieces all under $50, highlighting a time where wearing your husband/boyfriend's structured clothes were a thing.

Taking place of the much loved Merona and and Mossimo lines, A New Day features pieces sized 0-16 and XS-XXL, with women's ready to wear items that can be worn a bunch of different ways.

My first piece from the collection is this Women's Striped Shirt Dress.I emphasized the shirt piece, and paired it with a light wash pair of denim jeans. The shirt features a tie waist feature, without the rolling dilemma us plus girls encounter when the waist is a little fluffier. It also has pretty thin horizontal lines, reducing the vulnerability of widening me out, as stripes have the tendency to do.

The line is now available at Target.com. Check them out and be awed!

Faithfully,
Brieana

9.03.2017

Faith and Fashion 360 03 September versatile

OOTD: Girl On Fire

"Life starts all over again when the air is crisp..."

As the leaves start to change, I knew what it was time to do. Break out the reds, oranges, sweaters, and heavier coats. And although I'm not quite ready to use them, that doesn't mean I can't get you guys ready in some kind of way!

My prequel to the fall starts off with this convertible wrap dress I got from my sister in fashion over at Sassie Girl Fashion. I literally felt like a girl on fire! Just LOOK at all of those vibrant colors! I felt like a mix between Carmen in Hip-Hopera and Selena, ready to bust a reggaeton hit or two. As you can see it hugs ALL the right places *a plus girl's favorite thing), and the fabric is still breezy enough if the sun happens to come out (spoiler alert: no sun this day.)

Another bucket list item for a self-proclaimed fashionista? Being able to re-purpose an old outfit. This dress makes that super easy! Although I went with the run of the mill wrap, this dress can be work over 25 different ways! One sleeve, halter, backwards, without sleeves...the possibilities are amazing! It also gives lots of stretch, so it doesn't hug too tight.

This convertible dress is available in a number of prints, and can fit up to a size 16. Head over to Sassiegirlfashion.com for a look at this versatile number, as well as her other awesome pieces for the fall. Happy hunting!

Faithfully,
Brieana

7.27.2017

Faith and Fashion 360 27 July networking

When Fashion Meets Culture: ASC Fashion Week

A fashion week is a fashion industry event, lasting approximately one week, wherein fashion designers, brands or "houses" display their latest collections in runway shows to buyers and the media. These events influence trends for the current and upcoming seasons.

But there are some fashion weeks, that not only focus on hot designs and trends for the spring and winter seasons, but also focus on the melting pot that is fashion, showcasing excellence in diversity and production.

ASC Fashion Week focuses on designers from all over the globe, starting as a mere fashion week, but in the process has become a foundation for the development of brands paving the way for many to emerge as mainstream fashion houses, artists, and models. Their shows have garnered an audience of 400+ with up to 20 designers showcasing their collections.What sets ASC Fashion Week apart from your typical fashion extravaganza is their ability in every project to successfully bring together a blend of Fashion, Art and Culture. ASC Productions' collective platform and atmosphere brings together designers and artists from around the World to showcase their talent, skills and expertise. Their production and collective environment creates an explosive energy; collections bursting with colors, creating an atmosphere on the catwalk to remember.

The events held under ASC Productions attract exclusive National and International Designers, Hosts, Red Carpet Hosts, National and International Media and Photographers. Their shows draws creating networking opportunities for attendees to meet with celebrities designers, artists, fashionistas and other people who love the fashion industry.

Stayed tuned for more info on this trailblazer of an event. I'll be covering their events for Spring/Fall 2017. For now, feast your eyes on the designs of 15 designers who graced the runway last year.

Caren K by Kiran Khan